What language do they speak in Qatar — is English used in the World Cup 2022 host nation?

Joshua Thomas

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What language do they speak in Qatar — is English used in the World Cup 2022 host nation? image

The 2022 FIFA World Cup will be a historic moment for the Arab world, as Qatar becomes the first country from the region to host the tournament, as well as only the second time the tournament has been staged in Asia.

The decision to take the global football showpiece to the Middle East has seen the event pushed back to November and December, due to the hot weather in Qatar. But expected soaring temperatures won't be the only logistical challenge that could face fans.

For those supporters travelling from outside of the Arab world, there may also be a language barrier to consider.

More: Exploring Qatar, the World Cup 2022 host venue

What language do they speak in Qatar?

As a Middle Eastern country, Arabic is the official language of Qatar and is spoken most by locals. 

Qataris speak their own distinct Arabic dialect, commonly also heard in nearby Gulf countries like Kuwait, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. 

Arabic is the sixth-most spoken language in the world, with over 360 million native speakers. 

Do they speak English in Qatar?

While Arabic is Qatar's official language, many people in the country also speak English. In fact, English is seen as the second language and is embraced as a way to connect the country to the broader Western world. 

Most children in Qatar are taught some English growing up, with the language now used predominantly in state schools. 

Qatar is also home to many expats, who often arrive in the country only knowing how to speak English fluently. 

What language are Qatar's signs written in?

As a largely bilingual country now, Qatar widely embraces both Arabic and English when it comes to signage. 

Road signs and the like are often presented in Arabic and English, with both being a frequent sight in particular in the capital Doha, which will be the base for the majority of the action at the World Cup. 

For the tournament, extra effort has also been made by officials to ensure that signage should be even easier for foreigners to interpret. 

Key Arabic words and phrases for World Cup fans in Qatar

While football fans should be able to get around in Qatar with just English, learning a bit of Arabic won't hurt, and will also be seen as a sign of respect by the locals. 

Below are a few Arabic phrases that may come in handy, and will show Qataris you've made an effort to learn their language: 

  • Hala = Hello; Hi

  • Sabah al khair = Good morning

  • Naam = Yes

  • Laa = No

  • Wain…? = Where is..?

  • Abee musa'ada = I need help

  • Min fadhlik (for male)/ Min fadhlch (for female) = Please

  • Shukran (jazeelan) = Thank you (very much)

  • Ana asif = I'm sorry

  •  Ib kam = How much is this?

  • Mabrouk! = Congratulations!

  • Mataar = Airport

  • Mustashfa = Hospital

  • Funduq = Hotel

Joshua Thomas

Joshua Thomas Photo

Josh has been covering sport for nearly a decade now having fallen in love with football at a young age. A UTS graduate, Josh has previously worked for GOAL and now covers football closely for The Sporting News.